The digital, construction and healthcare sectors are particularly ‘hungry’ for talented new hires in 2026.

IN 2026, Ireland’s labour market remains robust, with something of a shift towards a skills-first economy – which basically means that an individual’s specific capabilities, competencies, and demonstrated skills are prioritised over formal qualifications, degrees, or rigid job histories.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, demand is currently concentrated in sectors tackling digital transformation (AI and cybersecurity), the housing crisis (construction), and an increasingly aging population (healthcare).

Here is a look at some of the most in-demand roles in Ireland currently:

1. Technology and data

The entry of GenAI into mainstream business has sparked a new wave of hiring for data-centric roles. Key positions include:

• AI/machine learning engineer (senior): €85,000-€120,000

• Cybersecurity analyst (mid-level):  €65,000- €85,000

• Cloud architect AWS/Azure (senior): €90,000-€130,000

• Software developer, full-stack, (mid-level): €60,000-€80,000

• Data engineer (senior): €75,000-€105,000

2. Pharmaceuticals and life sciences

Ireland is a global hub for pharma, with nine of the world’s top ten companies based here. The focus in 2026 is leaning towards quality assurance (QA) and process engineering as companies scale up biologics manufacturing.

• QA/QC analyst: €40,000-€60,000

• Validation engineer: €55,000-€80,000

• Process engineer (biotech): €60,000-€85,000

• Regulatory affairs specialist: €50,000-€75,000

3. Financial services and accounting

The financial sector has pivoted toward compliance and risk management due to stricter EU regulations (like NIS2 and DORA). There is also a persistent shortage of tax professionals.

• Financial planning & analysis manager: €80,000-€100,000

• Compliance officer: €55,000-€75,000

• Tax manager: €70,000-€95,000

• Fund accountant: €45,000-€60,000

4. Construction and engineering

To meet national housing and infrastructure targets, there is a big demand for technical construction roles. This is one of the few sectors where ‘on-site’ presence remains mandatory, often leading to higher localised pay in centres like Cork and Dublin.

• Quantity surveyor: €55,000-€85,000

• Site manager: €60,000-€90,000

• Civil /structural engineer: €50,000-€75,000

• BIM technician: €45,000-€65,000

5. Healthcare

Public and private healthcare providers are in a constant state of recruitment. Many of these roles qualify for the Critical Skills Employment Permit, which now has a minimum salary threshold of €38,000 - €40,904 (depending on the specific role and date of application).

• Registered nurse: €35,000-€55,000 (excl. shift premiums)

• Med practitioner (registrar/specialist): €65,000-€120,000+

• Physiotherapist/occupational therapist: €40,000-€65,000

• Radiographer: €40,000-€60,000

6. Hospitality

The hospitality industry in Ireland is experiencing a notable rebound and with a 6% projected growth in job openings, the sector is hungry for talent, particularly in high-skill and management roles.

• Hotel general manager: €79,532-€144,689

• Revenue manager: €85,000-€110,000

• Executive chef: €75,000-€90,000

• Sales and marketing manager: €55,000-€75,000

• Head chef: €36,000-€62,000